Arizona Car Accident Lawyer
Every day, thousands of Arizona drivers navigate the busy streets of Phoenix, cruise along I-10, and travel the state’s highways. Most trips are routine and safe. But in a split second, everything can change. A distracted driver runs a red light. Someone merges without checking their blind spot. A drunk driver crosses the center line. Suddenly, you’re dealing with serious injuries, a totaled vehicle, mounting medical bills, and an insurance company that seems more interested in protecting its bottom line than helping you recover.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Arizona, you’re facing challenges that extend far beyond your physical injuries. You may be unable to work, struggling to pay bills, dealing with insurance adjusters who pressure you to settle quickly, and wondering how you’ll afford the ongoing medical care you need. You deserve better. You deserve an experienced advocate who will fight for your rights and pursue every dollar you’re owed.
At Eddington Law, our Arizona car accident attorneys have spent decades helping crash victims just like you. We know Arizona’s roads, we understand the state’s traffic laws and insurance regulations, and we have a proven track record of standing up to insurance companies and winning. With an office conveniently located in Phoenix, we’re here to guide you through this difficult time and fight for the justice and compensation your family deserves.
Arizona Car Accident Statistics: Understanding the Risks
Arizona’s roads can be dangerous. The state consistently ranks among the most hazardous in the nation for drivers, with thousands of crashes occurring each year:
Phoenix Metropolitan Area: The greater Phoenix area sees tens of thousands of crashes annually, making it one of the most dangerous metropolitan areas in the country for drivers. The combination of rapid population growth, heavy traffic, extreme heat, and aggressive driving creates a perfect storm for accidents.
Interstate 10: This major corridor through Arizona is particularly dangerous, with frequent multi-vehicle crashes, commercial truck accidents, and high-speed collisions.
Rural Highways: Arizona’s rural roads present their own dangers, including limited lighting, wildlife crossings, and long distances between medical facilities—meaning even “minor” crashes can become serious emergencies.
Monsoon Season: Arizona’s summer monsoon storms create hazardous driving conditions with sudden dust storms (haboobs), heavy rain, flash flooding, and reduced visibility.
Behind every statistic is a real person whose life has been changed by someone else’s negligence. If you’re one of those people, we’re here to help you fight back.
Common Causes of Car Accidents in Arizona
Car accidents in Arizona happen for many reasons, but most share a common thread: someone’s negligence. Understanding what caused your accident is crucial to building a strong case and holding the right parties accountable.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents in Arizona. Despite laws prohibiting texting while driving, countless drivers still:
- Text, email, or use social media while driving
- Make phone calls without hands-free devices
- Eat or drink behind the wheel
- Adjust GPS or entertainment systems
- Apply makeup or groom themselves
- Turn around to deal with children or pets
Taking your eyes off the road for even a few seconds at highway speeds means traveling the length of a football field blind. The results are often catastrophic.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Arizona drivers are notorious for aggressive driving behaviors. Speeding reduces reaction time, increases stopping distance, and makes crashes more severe. Aggressive driving also includes:
- Tailgating
- Weaving through traffic
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Refusing to yield right-of-way
- Road rage incidents
Phoenix-area highways can feel like racetracks during rush hour, with drivers pushing well above speed limits and making dangerous maneuvers.
Impaired Driving
Despite strict DUI laws, impaired driving remains a serious problem in Arizona. Drivers under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, or illegal drugs cause devastating crashes. Impairment slows reaction time, impairs judgment, and reduces coordination—a deadly combination on Arizona’s busy roads.
Failure to Yield
Many Arizona car accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way:
- Turning left across oncoming traffic
- Pulling out from parking lots or side streets
- Merging onto highways without yielding
- Failing to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Ignoring yield signs at intersections
These violations often result in devastating T-bone collisions or head-on crashes.
Reckless Driving and Traffic Violations
Running red lights, illegal lane changes, improper turns, and other traffic violations cause countless accidents in Arizona. Some drivers simply ignore traffic laws, putting everyone else at risk.
Drowsy Driving
Fatigue impairs driving ability as much as alcohol. Long-haul drivers on I-10, shift workers, and people who simply don’t get enough sleep cause accidents when they fall asleep at the wheel or experience reduced alertness.
Weather Conditions
Arizona’s unique weather creates hazardous driving conditions:
- Monsoon storms: Sudden heavy rain, dust storms, and flash flooding
- Extreme heat: Can cause tire blowouts and mechanical failures
- Sun glare: Particularly dangerous during sunrise and sunset
- Dust storms: Create zero-visibility conditions on highways
Vehicle Defects and Maintenance Issues
Sometimes accidents result from vehicle defects or poor maintenance:
- Tire blowouts
- Brake failures
- Steering system malfunctions
- Defective airbags
- Accelerator problems
When defective products or negligent maintenance cause accidents, manufacturers, dealerships, or repair shops may be liable.
Poor Road Conditions
Poorly maintained roads, inadequate signage, dangerous intersections, or construction zones can contribute to accidents. Government entities responsible for road maintenance may be held liable in some cases.
Types of Car Accidents We Handle in Arizona
At Eddington Law, we handle all types of car accidents throughout Arizona, including:
Rear-End Collisions
These are among the most common types of accidents, often caused by following too closely, distracted driving, or sudden stops. While they may seem minor, rear-end accidents frequently cause serious injuries like whiplash, back injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.
Intersection Accidents
Crashes at intersections—including T-bone collisions, left-turn accidents, and crashes caused by running red lights—are particularly dangerous and often result in severe injuries.
Head-On Collisions
These devastating crashes, often caused by wrong-way drivers, drunk drivers, or drivers who cross the center line, frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Sideswipe Accidents
Occurring when vehicles traveling parallel make contact, often during lane changes or merging. While they may seem less serious, sideswipes can cause loss of control and lead to more severe secondary crashes.
Multi-Vehicle Pileups
Arizona’s highways see frequent multi-vehicle accidents, especially during dust storms or heavy traffic. These complex crashes often involve multiple at-fault parties and insurance companies.
Rollover Accidents
SUVs and top-heavy vehicles are particularly susceptible to rollovers, which often result in catastrophic injuries or death.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
When a driver flees the scene, we work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault party and pursue compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage if necessary.
Parking Lot Accidents
Low-speed collisions in parking lots can still cause significant injuries and vehicle damage. Determining fault can be complex in these scenarios.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
Even if no other vehicle is involved, you may have a claim if road defects, vehicle defects, or other factors contributed to your crash.
Common Injuries in Arizona Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor to catastrophic. Common injuries we see include:
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Back and Spine Injuries
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Broken Bones and Fractures
Internal Injuries
Burns
Cuts and Lacerations
Psychological Trauma
Wrongful Death
Arizona Car Accident Laws You Need to Know
Understanding Arizona’s traffic and insurance laws is crucial to protecting your rights after a car accident.
Arizona’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Arizona’s Minimum Insurance Requirements
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
- $15,000 per accident for property damage
Statute of Limitations
Arizona’s Mandatory Reporting Law
Seat Belt Laws and Their Impact
Dealing with Arizona Insurance Companies After a Car Accident
After an Arizona car accident, you’ll deal with insurance companies—either the at-fault driver’s insurer, your own insurance company, or both. Understanding how they operate is crucial to protecting your rights.
Remember: Insurance Companies Are Not on Your Side
Common Insurance Company Tactics in Arizona
Requesting Recorded Statements: Insurance adjusters will ask you to provide recorded statements about the accident. They use carefully worded questions designed to get you to say things that can be used against you.
Disputing Medical Treatment: Insurers routinely claim your medical treatment was unnecessary, excessive, or unrelated to the accident. They may pressure you to see doctors they select who minimize your injuries.
Delaying the Claims Process: Insurance companies may drag out the process, hoping financial pressure will force you to accept a lowball offer.
Shifting Blame: Even when their insured clearly caused the accident, insurance companies look for any way to blame you, reducing their payout under Arizona’s comparative negligence rules.
Surveillance: Insurance companies may hire investigators to follow you or monitor your social media, looking for anything that might undermine your claim—even innocent activities taken completely out of context.
What You Should NEVER Do When Dealing with Insurance
- Never give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first
- Never sign any documents or releases without having an attorney review them
- Never accept a settlement offer without understanding the full value of your claim
- Never apologize or admit fault
- Never discuss your accident on social media
- Never minimize your injuries or pain
Compensation Available in Arizona Car Accident Cases
If you’ve been injured in an Arizona car accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:
Economic Damages
Medical Expenses: All past and future costs of medical treatment, including emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and ongoing care needs.
Lost Income: Wages and salary you’ve lost due to missing work during recovery, including sick leave, vacation time, and personal days used.
Lost Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your future earning ability, you can recover compensation for this diminished potential.
Property Damage: Cost to repair or replace your vehicle and any personal property damaged in the accident.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Transportation to medical appointments, prescription costs, home modifications, and other accident-related expenses.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, discomfort, and ongoing symptoms from your injuries.
Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, PTSD, and psychological trauma.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Inability to participate in activities and hobbies you enjoyed before the accident.
Loss of Consortium: Compensation to spouses for loss of companionship and intimacy.
Disfigurement and Scarring: Permanent physical changes affecting your appearance.
Arizona does not cap non-economic damages in car accident cases, allowing you to pursue full compensation for your suffering.
Punitive Damages
In cases involving extreme recklessness—such as drunk driving or intentional harm—Arizona courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.
The total value of your claim depends on many factors: the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, how the accident impacts your life, the strength of evidence, available insurance coverage, and the skill of your attorney. Our experienced team thoroughly evaluates every aspect of your case to pursue maximum compensation.
Why You Need an Arizona Car Accident Lawyer
Some accident victims wonder whether they really need an attorney. Here’s why legal representation matters:
We Know the True Value of Your Claim
Insurance companies hope you don’t know what your case is worth. We do. We calculate all your damages—including future medical costs and lost earning capacity you may not have considered.
We Handle All Communication with Insurance Companies
Once you hire us, we deal with the insurance adjusters so you don’t have to. We protect you from giving statements that could hurt your claim and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
We Investigate Your Accident Thoroughly
We conduct our own independent investigation, gather evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts, and build the strongest possible case for you.
We Negotiate Aggressively
Insurance companies know we’re experienced trial attorneys who aren’t afraid to go to court. This reputation gives us significant leverage during settlement negotiations.
We’re Prepared to Go to Trial
While most cases settle, we prepare every case for trial. If the insurance company won’t make a fair offer, we’re ready to present your case to an Arizona jury.
We Work on Contingency
You pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case. This means quality legal representation is accessible regardless of your financial situation.
Studies Show Represented Clients Recover More
Research consistently shows that accident victims represented by attorneys recover significantly more compensation than those who handle claims themselves—even after attorney fees are deducted.
What to Do After a Car Accident in Arizona
The steps you take immediately after an accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation:
Check for Injuries and Call 911
Your safety and health come first. Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is hurt.
Move to Safety If Possible
If vehicles are drivable and blocking traffic, move them to the shoulder or a safe location. Turn on hazard lights and use flares or warning triangles if available.
Call Law Enforcement
Arizona law requires reporting accidents that cause injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. A police report provides crucial documentation for your claim.
Exchange Information
Get the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license number, license plate number, insurance company, and policy number. Also get contact information from any witnesses.
Document the Scene
If you’re physically able:
- Take photos of all vehicles, damage, the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and debris
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Write down your recollection of how the accident happened
- Note weather conditions, time of day, and traffic conditions
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, see a doctor right away. Some injuries have delayed symptoms. Delaying medical care gives insurance companies an argument that you weren’t really injured.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company, but provide only basic factual information. Don’t give detailed statements or accept any settlement offers before consulting an attorney.
Preserve Evidence
Keep all medical records, bills, repair estimates, and accident-related documentation. Don’t repair or dispose of your vehicle until your attorney advises you to do so.
Be Careful What You Say and Post
Don’t apologize or admit fault at the scene. Don’t discuss the accident on social media. Insurance companies monitor social media and will use your posts against you.
Contact an Experienced Arizona Car Accident Attorney
The sooner you have legal representation, the better. An attorney can protect your rights from day one, preserve evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies.
How Eddington Law Handles Arizona Car Accident Cases
When you choose Eddington Law to represent you, here’s what you can expect:
Free Consultation
We’ll listen to your story, review the facts of your case, explain your legal options, and give you an honest assessment—all at no cost to you.
Thorough Investigation
We conduct our own comprehensive investigation:
- Visiting the accident scene
- Obtaining police reports and witness statements
- Reviewing medical records
- Consulting with accident reconstruction experts
- Analyzing insurance policies
- Gathering all available evidence
Accurate Case Valuation
We calculate the full value of your claim, including all current and future damages.
Handling All Communications
We deal with insurance companies on your behalf, protecting you from tactics designed to reduce or deny your claim.
Aggressive Negotiation
We negotiate assertively for maximum compensation, using our experience and reputation to secure the best possible settlement.
Trial Preparation and Litigation
We prepare every case as if it will go to trial. If settlement negotiations fail, we’re ready to present your case to a jury.
Regular Communication
We keep you informed throughout the process, answer your questions promptly, and make ourselves available when you need us.
Compassionate Service
We understand what you’re going through and treat you with the respect and personal attention you deserve during this difficult time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona Car Accidents
How long do I have to file a car accident claim in Arizona?
You have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, don’t wait—evidence can disappear and memories fade. Contact us immediately to protect your rights.
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be able to recover through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. We’ll explore all available options.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Arizona’s comparative negligence rule allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially responsible. Your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?
Never accept a settlement without consulting an experienced attorney first. Initial offers are almost always far below what your case is truly worth.
How much is my car accident case worth?
Every case is unique. The value depends on your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other factors. We’ll provide an honest evaluation during your free consultation.
Do I really need a lawyer for my car accident?
While not legally required, having an attorney dramatically increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. Studies show represented clients recover significantly more than those who handle claims themselves.
How long will my case take?
Some cases settle within a few months, while complex cases may take longer. We work efficiently while ensuring you receive full compensation.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
You can afford us. We work on contingency—no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we win. Your consultation is free.
Can I still file a claim if I didn’t call the police?
You should have called the police, but you may still have a claim. Contact us immediately—we can help document the accident through other means.
What if my injuries didn’t appear right away?
Many injuries have delayed symptoms. Seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear and contact us right away. The “discovery rule” may extend your filing deadline in certain situations.
Contact an Arizona Car Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a car accident anywhere in Arizona, don’t face the insurance companies alone. You need experienced legal representation that will fight for your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
At Eddington Law, we’ve spent decades helping Arizona car accident victims rebuild their lives. We know Arizona’s roads, traffic laws, and insurance regulations. We know how insurance companies operate, and we know how to win. With our Phoenix office conveniently located to serve clients throughout Arizona, we’re here to help.
Time is critical. Evidence can disappear, witnesses’ memories fade, and Arizona’s statute of limitations is strict. The sooner you contact us, the better we can protect your rights
Your consultation is completely free and confidential. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, explain your legal options, and give you an honest case assessment. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Don’t wait another day. Contact Eddington Law today:
- Call our Phoenix office for immediate assistance
- Visit eddington.law to learn more about our firm
- Stop by our Phoenix office for a face-to-face consultation
We serve car accident victims throughout Arizona, including:
- Phoenix
- Scottsdale
- Tempe
- Mesa
- Chandler
- Glendale
- Peoria
- Gilbert
- Surprise
- Tucson
- Flagstaff
- And all surrounding communities
You’ve already been through enough. Let us handle the legal fight from here. We’re ready to stand up for you and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.
No fees unless we win. Call today.